Los Angeles, United States - August 21, 2024

08/21/2024 02:33 am (GMT-0700) | NORTH HOLLYWOOD, LOS ANGELES – Two people trapped inside a burning two-story house were rescued by firefighters early Wednesday morning.

The Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a call at approximately 2:33 a.m. reporting a structure fire in the 11000 block of West Sarah Street, near the intersection of Vineland Place and Sarah Street. Firefighters from the Valley Station arrived at the scene to find a two-story, 3,300 square foot home engulfed in flames.

First arriving firefighters were informed by two residents who were able to evacuate, that two people remained trapped inside the burning residence.

During an aggressive and well-coordinated attack on the flames, firefighters discovered and rescued a 60 year-old woman in serious condition and a 40 year-old woman in grave condition, reported the LAFD.

One unresponsive dog and three unresponsive cats were also discovered.

LAFD paramedics transported three patients to area hospitals; a 35-year-old man who had evacuated, and both rescued women who were trapped inside the burning home. An 80 year-old man who also had initially evacuated, declined offered ambulance transportation to a local hospital.

No other injuries were reported. However, as far as the pets are concerned, the three pet felines proved to be beyond medical help and were determined dead at the scene, according to the LAFD.

Firefighters were able to resuscitate the dog and provide supportive care pending arrival of the city's Department of Animal Services.

The LAFD reported that the American Red Cross Disaster Action Team volunteers were summoned to provide for immediate needs of the 80 year-old man.

The cause of the fire is under active investigation.